"LIFE beGINS AT THE END OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE"

What's a better way to break the ice than to arm wrestle with a complete stranger? In 2014, Elise Granata designed the Power Hour of Fun program for her birthday to just bring a community of people together and have a great night. Since then, she has developed the concept into a large-scale, interactive event that has been a sensation at conferences, events and parties around Santa Cruz, Bay Area and New York. On September 9th, she will be bringing the fun to Motion Pacific in Downtown Santa Cruz! ​1) What's your main gig and what do you love about it? By day, I am the Community Catalyst at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH.) I get the distinct joy of engaging with our members, volunteers, and collaborators. I love it because I know how alienating it can be to feel connected to a meaningful community, and I get to create those connections for dozens of people to engage with the MAH every week.

2) How did you come up with the idea for Power Hour of Fun? It was originally created for my 23rd birthday party. I had moved to Santa Cruz about 1.5 years prior, and had made lots of acquaintances but not a ton of close friends. I wanted to design an experience that would be fun for everyone to do without it feeling like another awkward party where nobody talked to each other despite all feeling obligated to be there for the birthday person. For some reason I thought back to the OG 'power hour' format. This is a drinking game where one takes a shot of beer per minute, usually to the tune of a playlist of 60 minute-long songs. Fast forward to casual brainstorms with a few friends/colleagues/strangers-- but mainly my best friend Pia and I-- which led to sixty different activities for the very first Power Hour of Fun. It was a wildly fun night. I remember feeling totally bowled over by the potential of this experience. If this group of 50 "random" people walked away with barriers broken down and hearts opened up, how powerful could this experience be for more people? I've since facilitated Power Hours for more events, conferences, and team-building experiences with the same outcomes. I have no doubt it's going to be an unforgettable time for New Wave Networking on September 9th.

3) Since Power Hour is such a successful venture, how do you juggle the main hustle and the side hustle?This is 100% an evolving answer for me. To be honest, I struggle with the juggle. There are some days where I've booked Power Hours and wish I didn't because I feel totally burnt from work, and other days where it feels like an easy project to maintain and I'm grateful for the simple catharsis of sharing this thing with other people. Largely, it seems to be the thing I always say I'll grow when I have the time. I'm currently looking into splitting the work with others and forging a more intentional work-life balance. And I really want to! Maybe when I have the time. (Jokes!)

4) By now everyone has heard about the gourmet awesomeness of Abbott Square, but for us youngsters, what are some cool things that are happening that we don't want to miss out on? The weekly free programming is really at the heart of the Abbott Square experience. Make something new at a Crafternoon, try yoga or salsa at Shake the Square, or dive into Santa Cruz nerddom with Hands-on-History. All free, every week. Check out the upcoming list of events here: https://santacruzmah.org/events/category/abbott-square/

4) What are some fun activities that you enjoy doing around Santa Cruz County?I love sweaty hikes, eating a lot of vegan food, buying comics at Comicopolis and Atlantis, running on West Cliff, and taking long meandering walks with my partner that are punctuated by buying snacks.

This month, we are so proud to feature Santa Cruz's very own young entrepreneurial chef, Rachel Hughes! Cooking since the age of 8 and starting her own cake business at only 12, Rachel has made her mark in the Santa Cruz food scene through her work in some of the best local restaurants and her own specialty menu items that she created with her businessTanglewood! Check out her interview below:

​1) When did you discover your passion for food?

My passion for food started when I was about 8 years old. When most kids were waking up early on Saturday morning to watch cartoons I was ready with my notebook and VHS tape to watch and record my favorite food network shows.

2) How did you get your start in the food business?

I started my own specialty cake business when I was 12 years old. After that I worked an assortment of different jobs ranging from catering to baking jobs. A few years later I settled into the Head Baker and Assistant Production Manager positions at a Gluten Free Bakery. After the bakery I worked as Head Froster at Buttercup Cakes. Later, I moved to Europe for 8 months traveling and cooking. When I returned to the states I got jobs at Soif, Mortal Dumpling and Ty’s Eatery. I also spent some time working for Ocean2Table.

3) Tell us more about Tanglewood and what motivated you to start your OWN business as an entrepreneur/ chef extraordinaire?

Tanglewood is a catering business that also services the Bar at the Santa Cruz Food Lounge. I was propelled into starting my own business very unexpectedly. The two companies I was working for at the time both decided to stop their business to pursue work out of Santa Cruz. I was left with a big decision, find a new job or start my own business. I was 25 years old and decided, it was time to take a leap and run my own business.

4) What would your advice be to other young professionals that are considering a career with the food industry?

SLEEP NOW! Be well rested and do any adventuring or activities that fall on the weekend. Chances are your weekends will be booked, (if you’re lucky) once you own your own business. The food industry is harder then it looks, it takes an immense amount of work and determination; if you don’t absolutely love food, you may not make it. You have to be okay with working 12-20 hour days and still bring passion to your craft. Always stay informed, look at what other chefs are creating and watch the farmers markets closely to see what they are growing. This industry is exhausting at times, but it’s also creative, interactive and a ton of fun! I cannot imagine doing anything else.

5) What is your signature dish and where can I go to try it!

One of my signature dishes are Savory Churros. I created this recipe whilst planning my first Tanglewood menu. The original dish was Blue Cheese Churros topped with an Apple, Onion and Serrano Chutney. Throughout the months the dish has changes and seen many variations, such as Cheddar Cheese and Bacon Churros drizzled with Friends in Cheeses Spicy Tomato Jam. You can find my cooking at the Santa Cruz Food Lounge On Monday nights 5-8, Tuesday nights 4-7, for Two-fer Tuesday, two menu items and a drink on tap for $10. Thursday nights, starting at 6 and some Fridays. I also do Pop-Ups around town at places like MJA Vineyards and New Bohemia Brewing. You can keep up with Tanglewood on Instagram at Tanglewood.sc or Tanglewood’s Facebook page.

6) Where can we find you hanging out at?

You can find me by the ocean, usually with my favorite coffee or chai in hand. Some nights playing darts at the Poet and Patriot or the West Side drinking wine or ciders.

A key ingredient to strengthen your career opportunities is taking advantage of resources that can help you professionally network, especially your alma mater's! Meet Katie Linder, Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement, The Network atUC Santa Cruz, whose job it is to help other alumni get connected and start their career paths. Learn more and visit the official UC Santa Cruz Alumni website here.

1) What made you decide to begin your career at your alma mater (UC Santa Cruz) after graduating?​I decided to start my career at UC Santa Cruz because of the relationships I built while I was a student. It was a great first start because I never felt like I was reestablishing a network, but instead just kept expanding my original one. Plus, I get to spend every day at my college campus, and always have the newest Banana Slug pride gear.

2) In your role as the Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement, The Network, how are you able to support post-graduates with career and networking opportunities?

My job is really about creating a structure around and opportunities for alumni to connect with each other. The power of an alma matter lies within the thousands of people that are connected by a single institution. This connection comes with shared experiences, values, and passions that last a lifetime. Everytime that I find a way to connect alumni to each other or students to alumni, I am expanding the possibilities for the alumni community. More often than not, these opportunities, especially for young alumni, involve creating conversations around career and networking.

3) What is an awesome aspect of your job?

Without a doubt, working with volunteers! Our alumni program wouldn’t work without the advocates, mentors, event planners and more that support every area of our programming. Working with volunteers is always inspiring. Our volunteers show up to evening conference calls or events after full days of work, and show up early to set things up, leave late making other alums feel welcome. They do all of this because they care about UC Santa Cruz, and their passion keeps me inspired.

4) What are the benefits of using college alumni resources?

Where do I event start?! Specific benefits will look different depending on your alma matter’s programs, but I am sure that the benefits will span from campus perks to exclusive events to member discounts. I would say one of the most popular benefits is library access. My personal favorite benefits are the exclusive events. These types of events allow people to re-experience a taste of college whether it is listening to a featured lecture or meeting up for happy hour with other friends and alums in the area. There is always something for everyone!

5) What are some fun activities that you enjoy doing around Santa Cruz County?

While I live over the hill in San Jose, Santa Cruz has a special place in my heart. When I do spend weekends in Santa Cruz I have a short list of my favorite spots. There will always be a trip to Zachary’s. The trip will often entail a quick spin up to campus, especially if I am with other Banana Slugs. Anytime I am anywhere near downtown I’ll find myself book shopping at Logos. I have to take a walk along Westcliff. Then somehow on the way home I’ll always end up with a box of goodies from Kelly’s or The Buttery, and a bag of coffee from a local roasting company.

6) Where can we find you hanging out?

Depending on the weather, you can find me at home with my cat and a book, playing board games with friends, going on bike rides around the park, and hitting up any farmer’s market I can find.

Since arriving to Santa Cruz in 2013, Laurie Egan has become a dynamic leader in creating ways for people to get engaged in our community. Whether its inspiring other young professionals to serve through United Way's Emerging Leaders Circle or her work with the Coastal Watershed Council to educate the public on #MySanLorenzo, Laurie has truly become a champion in paving the way for a more vibrant and healthier community.

1. ​What is your job and what do you do?​I am the Outreach and Development Manager for the Coastal Watershed Council, or CWC for short. At CWC, we’re working to reconnect the Santa Cruz community to the San Lorenzo River so that we all know how we both rely on and impact the river. In essence, my job is to connect people to the San Lorenzo River in whatever way is most meaningful for them.

​2. ​What is an awesome aspect of your job?

I love being able to meet so many different people. From students to poets to fellow young professionals to new neighbors, scientists and historians, it seems as though I’m meeting someone new each week I work. I love hearing stories from people about how the San Lorenzo River has shaped their lives. I also get so energized when we’re hosting an event and I learn that through our event, someone was able to visit the river for the very first time. It’s that gathering of community that’s so rewarding.

​3. ​How else are you involved in the community?

I’m a steering committee member of the Emerging Leaders Circle of Santa Cruz. I love being a part of the group because it not only helps connect young professionals, but it does so with purpose – to educate, inspire and engage my peers in the community. There’s a real focus on the difference that each individual can make and the shifts we can create when we work together. It’s really inspiring.

​4. ​What's a fun fact about the San Lorenzo River, and how can we get involved to support the Coastal Watershed Council's Mission?​I often tell people that if you live, work or play in the City of Santa Cruz approximately 2/3 of your water comes from the San Lorenzo River watershed. It’s the water that you drink on a daily basis, that you shower in and that might even make your favorite local beer.

Every day we’re looking for people to give back to their community through the San Lorenzo River, so that in the heart of our community we can have a vibrant, safe and thriving greenspace. Imagine the Santa Cruz Riverwalk, the park that lines the lower river, as Santa Cruz’s central park. We could have that, especially if we all lend a helping hand. If you want to volunteer your skills like graphic design or gain new skills like learning to test water quality, you can find a fun and interesting way to volunteer with CWC. You can donate. Any amount of financial support makes a big difference. You can share your ideas. Share what you envision when you picture a thriving San Lorenzo River. You can get involved in any of these ways by visiting sanlorenzoriver.org.​​5. ​Why do you choose to stay in Santa Cruz?

The people. I grew up in a small town in Western Massachusetts (think 5,000 people), where I knew most of my classmates since I was in kindergarten. I’d walk around town and I knew my community and my community knew me. I didn’t necessarily think I’d find that in a city, even a small one like Santa Cruz. I’m so lucky that I have. It feels great to be a part of a broader community here, where I feel connected to the people and the place. It feels like a small town. And, as an environmentalist, of course I’m drawn to the beautiful coastal landscape and towering redwood forests we get to call home.

​6. ​What is some advice you can give to other young professionals?

Something that I’ve found rewarding is deepening my relationships with those that inspire me. I have coffee and lunch dates regularly with women who I look to as mentors and friends. While our conversations aren’t always explicitly about work, I’ve found that I’ve gleamed so much wisdom from these conversations. So to other young professionals, I’d say that if someone inspires you, ask them to grab a coffee with you, to take a walk by the river or to ask if you can have a conversation with them. And when you do – pick a date, put it on the calendar and make it official, rather than having it as a good intention that falls by the wayside.

​7. ​ What were your previous jobs leading up to the one you have now?

I graduated with a B.S. in Environmental Analysis from Harvey Mudd College in 2012. From there, I headed straight to the Bay Area with an intention to work at an environmental nonprofit. I spent a year in Berkeley and Oakland doing internships and temporary jobs at places like Pesticide Action Network and Center for Environmental Health. While in those temporary roles, I was applying for permanent positions at organizations that worked on toxics, environmental justice, clean energy – you name it. At times it was disheartening because I’d hear that my job application was one of 270 that had been submitted for the position and was being denied. Or others, I’d sit through hours of interviews to simply not hear a word back from. In the midst of it all, I found what seemed to be the perfect role for me – a job titled River Champion at the Coastal Watershed Council. I got it about 4 years ago and while my title has changed over the years, it has been a perfect fit ever since.

​8​. What are some more fun activities you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Unsurprisingly, I love rivers. I spend a lot of my time visiting rivers – the San Lorenzo of course, but also hiking, camping and travelling, often to rivers. I take an annual camping trip with a big group of friends up to the Yuba River outside of Nevada City. I love camping along rivers in Big Sur and visiting friends in Portland, OR in the southwest and on the east coast. Pretty much everywhere you might travel has a river, and they’re fun to check out wherever you go.

​9. ​Tell us what your favorite hangout places we can find you at!

I’m a big coffee-drinker, so Lulu’s or Verve is always a safe bet. For a happy hour drink or on the weekends you might find me at Lupulo, Pour or 515. Oh, and, of course, the San Lorenzo River, but I think you already knew that.

So you've been to the Santa Cruz Warriors games...but have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes? Check out our exclusive interview with Christina Pedersen, the Business Operations Coordinator for the Santa Cruz Warriors! You can get your Warriors game ticket here.

1. How did you land your position as the Business Operations Coordinator for the Santa Cruz Warriors?

It was a long road to get the position I’m in today! After I graduated from high school I had trouble deciding what career to pursue, but because I grew up surrounded by basketball and football I knew that working in professional sports would be a dream come true. While attending Cabrillo College, the Dakota Wizards relocated and became the Santa Cruz Warriors, so I took a chance and went to the job fair! I applied for basically every position and ended up getting hired as an usher.

During my time as an usher, I interacted with people from a variety of departments that season. The more I got to know my colleagues, my future goals became clearer. A Game Operations employee ended up being a closely-related family friend (Santa Cruz is a really small town!), so he was eager to refer me to his boss at Golden State! I had an interview that offseason, and the following two years I had an internship with the Game Operations department for the Golden State Warriors.

Before my second season with Golden State started, I began my emphasis in Public Relations at Santa Clara University and knew that I wanted to make the same transition professionally. That same season, a familiar face from Santa Cruz arrived in the PR department for Golden State. Every time I saw my old friend I asked about his career path and whether there were any game-night openings for his department. That summer, after all of the Championship celebrations were over, I got an opportunity to work for Golden State’s PR Department! I was ecstatic to get the position.

Last year, along with working for Golden State’s PR Department, I also held a Member Services Representative position for the San Francisco 49ers, where I assisted in Ticket Operations and Ticket Sales. When the Business Operations Coordinator position opened in Santa Cruz, I had the right mix of experience between my time with Golden State and the 49ers that it was a great fit!

2. What does a day in the life of a Warriors representative look like?

My days vary greatly day by day, so it’s really hard to say what an average day consists of. My main responsibilities include assisting in Public Relations, Community Relations, Ticket Operations, Office Management, assisting our President, and assisting Basketball Operations, along with other spontaneous tasks that come my way.

As for game days, I arrive at the arena a few hours before tipoff to set up the Box Office. This includes ensuring that all will-call tickets are printed, the ticket scanners are working properly, and that the Box Office is organized. Once the Box Office is set up, I transition to helping with PR. This includes prepping media credentials, greeting media upon arrival, distributing statistic sheets throughout the game, in-game tweeting, and producing a post-game recap. I love the excitement and variety that comes along with this career and my position!

3. What would your advice be to other young professionals that are considering a career with an industry such as the Santa Cruz Warriors?

The best advice I can give is to put yourself out there. Because working in sports is such a niche career, networking with everyone you meet is a must. Since I first got my job with the Santa Cruz Warriors as an usher, I’ve moved around through departments to get where I am today ONLY because I talk to everyone and tell them of my goals. I’ve found that people generally want to help one another get ahead, so don’t be afraid to go out on a limb! I wouldn’t be where I am today if I hadn’t put myself out there and treated everyone’s advice as gold.

4. Be honest, how awesome is Chris Murphy? (President of the Santa Cruz Warriors)

“AWESOME” is a great way to begin to describe Chris Murphy. He’s an incredible leader that is involved in every aspect of our business and is a visionary in every respect. His work ethic and humility never ceases to amaze us. He teaches us through his own actions and sets the tone for our culture of teamwork and accountability. We’re lucky to have a leader with such immense drive, compassion for our staff, and community-mindfulness.

5. Aside from attending Warrior's game, what do like to do for fun and where can we find you hanging out at?

I LOVE being outdoors, whether it’s at the beach, the forest, a lake, or a wide-open field, I need that fresh air every day to refresh myself. When I’m not working a Santa Cruz Warrior game, I love watching the Golden State Warriors play, and during football season I typically spend my Monday’s, Thursday’s, and Sunday’s watching the games. Although this is a bit cliché, I love spending time relaxing with my boyfriend and my friends, playing board games, video games, or binge-watching Netflix and HBO shows. I also love reading a good book in the sun or while snuggled up in a cozy blanket.

If the definition "Community Catalyst" ever had a photo in the dictionary, you will find the always smiling face of Santa Cruz's very own Mariah Tanner. Along with all of her daily responsibilities, she is again serving the community through her new project called#ReGiftTheGiftofGiftGiving. Check out the video here!

1. What is your job and what do you do?

I am the Marketing Manager for the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP).

Oh gosh, some days I ask myself “what don’t I do!?” On any given day I might be producing regional events, maintaining our website, promoting our community initiatives, writing press releases, seeking new ways to develop content marketing, building out our social media strategic plan, crafting a bi-weekly regional report, developing public relations, generating endless community engagement, mentoring interns…and a whole lot of DREAMIN’ up “what’s next!?”

I am the QUEEN of the “Side Hustle” and I believe that I am so much more than just my “RJ” (real job). I am fiercely committed to serving our community which is why I do so many things outside the scope of where my paycheck comes from. I’ve co-founded a donation project serving our homeless shelters called, Re-Gift the Gift of Gift Giving, I am a co-organizer of our local TEDxSantaCruz, I serve on the Young Nonprofit Professional Network leadership committee, and I am a founding member and Marketing Chair of the Emerging Leaders Circle.

2. What is unique about it?

One day I might be shooting hoops on the Santa Cruz Warriors court with our Mayor, another day I might be tying ribbon around 350 bars of chocolate. Working on a tiny but mighty team for a powerhouse nonprofit organization means that I get to wear a lot of hats, keeping my projects and day-to-day always an interesting hustle which is pretty much non-stop.

The Monterey Bay Economic Partnership is truly a one of a kind organization. We’re a regional nonprofit that is working tirelessly on catalyzing change and creating well-being across the entire Monterey Bay Region. Convening leaders and resources, we are committed to affordable housing, a thriving workforce, and smart infrastructure that protects our environment.

3. What is an awesome aspect of your job?

Work-life balance is a priority of MBEP – I can work in yoga pants from my backyard, or from our rooftop deck in our office in Downtown Santa Cruz. I can work when I am inspired at night, or take an ocean swim midday at lunch. I really believe that MBEP has created a culture of well-being, which is sometimes hard to find in the nonprofit sector. Not to mention that my leadership values creativity, passion, professional development, and innovation!

4. Why do you choose to stay in Santa Cruz?

I am a Santa Cruz native, these are my roots not just my home. My unshakeable love for this community, the people, the places, the natural beauty is really at the core of who I am. I can go to brunch with my girlfriends, SUP in the Harbor, mountain bike in the afternoon, and attend a film screening on reproductive rights while sitting next to my college water polo coach all in one day, literally that is a real day I had!

5. What is some advice you can give to other young professionals?

SPEAK UP for what you want, need, love! “It’s really all about who you know” is such a cliché, but so so true. The more people that know what you’re looking for and what you love, the more people you can have advocating on your behalf. I kid you not, the minute I say “I want to be on a Board of Directors” I will have like six texts from friends and fellow community movers & shakers, it’s no joke! I really believe that people want other people to succeed, and as soon as you make whatever it is known to the world that you want to accomplish, your community will show-up for you and fight for you until you cross that finish line.

6. What were your previous jobs leading up to the one you have now?

Well, I can tell you that once upon a time I was a camp counselor for SEVEN Summers at an outdoor camp in Michigan, a Social Media Content Marketer, a Corporate Events Director, a Community Organizer, and my personal favorite a High School Swim Coach!

7. What are some more fun activities you enjoy doing in Santa Cruz County?

My favorite thing in the whole world is the ocean, and any chance that I get, I will be playing, swimming, stand up paddling, surfing, or bonfire-ing! I also love anything that has to do with my best friends and our gazillion coffee shops, yoga classes, hiking trails, volunteer opportunities, or community events celebrating the endless awesome work that is being done locally!

8. What are your favorite hangout places?

You can always find me at the MAH on First Friday, Downtown Santa Cruz in search of the perfect coconut milk latte in the middle of the work grind, or on my cruiser after work at Seabright Beach chasing sunsets.

In November's Young Professional Highlight, we sat down and chatted with Bryant Yang, an inspirational entrepreneur who chose to stay in Santa Cruz after graduating from UCSC and created his startup called Epiquest. Find out more about his work on his website here.

​1. ​What is your job and what do you do?

"I'm involved in many things but my main focus is founding and running a social engagement startup called Epiquest."

​2. ​ What is unique about it?

"There are many things, but the most unique thing about entrepreneurship and being part of a startup is the amount of social impact a startup can have on a community or the world within very short periods of time. Since there is very little politics and hierarchy in comparison to larger corporations you can achieve things fairly quickly."

​3. ​Why did you decide to become an Entrepreneur?

"Thinking about it, I guess this decision was really finalized way back in my first year of high school. You know, when teachers asked you to write a paper on what you want to be when you get older. I knew I had a passion for technology, but I wasn't too sure what I wanted to be. I took a look around the classroom for inspiration and it struck me that there were a lot of these black boxes throughout the room called computers and they were all running an operating system called Windows."

"So I searched Yahoo to see who was responsible for Windows and at the time I had no idea who Bill Gates was. I read more about Gates on Wikipedia and according to some Forbes headlines he was the richest man in the world. Being wealthy and creating something that had such a big impact in everyone's lives sounded pretty great to me at the time. I now pursue entrepreneurship for the latter because startups are the quickest way to make large and positive impacts in people's lives."

​4. ​What is an awesome aspect of your job?

"In the meantime, it's working with a great team on something I really look forward to myself, the team, and others using and having lots of fun while we're at it."

​5. ​Where did you grow up and why did you choose Santa Cruz?

"I grew up in the southern part of Sacramento and came to Santa Cruz to attend UC Santa Cruz. After graduation I ended up staying because of the community, access to the outdoors, the closeness to the rest of Silicon Valley, good food and great beer."

​6. ​ What is some advice you can give to other young professionals?

"Everyone has dreams and goals beyond the scope of their daily commitments, but very few ever pursue them. The first step to starting anything is to dive right in and get to work. Once you get through that first step, just keep the momentum going and focus on getting to your next milestone. Then when you get to that next milestone, focus on the next, get there and so on and so forth. There will be a lot of things you don't know along the way, but don't let that prevent you from starting or continuing."

"As you work you'll pick up things and learn on the job. As long as you're learning and making progress you're on the right track. Most of all surround yourself with others who can teach and/or help you—nothing is ever really achieved alone even by Genius standards, others who'll celebrate with you when things look up, and keep you going when times get tough. Once you've accomplished milestones and look back you'll be surprised by how much you've accomplished and how far you've come."

​7. What were your previous jobs leading up to the one you have now?​

"My first job in Santa Cruz was interning at NextSpace where I was surrounded by all sorts of Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners. It felt like a goldmine being in a space where everyone was doing exactly what I wanted to do, but in their respective fields and interests. It was at NextSpace that I realized that an Entrepreneur didn't need to be a Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, or a Mark Zuckerberg to make a living and also make a difference in their community and/or the world."

"After college, I worked at Google on several teams and learned a lot about the way teams were ran for different departments, projects, and meetings. Including how everyone really embodied the playful and hard working culture that is Google. While working there the environment and people really inspired me to just get what I wanted to achieve longterm started."

"Now at Plantronics, a few of many of the outstanding takeaways for me thus far is the evolution of the company and how much care, collaboration, and work it takes to build, market, and deliver outstanding products. The people and culture also really inspire me to want to build a successful company in Santa Cruz."

​8. Quick! Fun Fact:

"I used to breakdance when I was younger, naturally through muscle memory I can still dance but my stamina and upper body strength can no longer keep up."

​9. What are some more fun activities you enjoy doing in Santa Cruz County?

"When I can make the time I like to hike and explore the redwoods, read books in coffee shops with a nice warm soy mocha, and/or take my camera out on photography expeditions and shoot swimwear/fashion models or capture the beauty of landscapes."

​10. ​What are your favorite ​hangout places?

​"I'm usually at Verve for a cup of coffee or at The Red ​with friends taking shots and having a few beers."

In our first blog post, we are chatting with Molly Lautamo, Writer & Content Strategist Extraordinaire! Below is our exclusive interview with her, check out her website here. ​1. What is your job and what do you do?

"I work for myself as a copywriter and content strategist. This means I help my clients with all forms of messaging for their business, from website copy and white papers to blogging and newsletters."

2. What is unique about it?

"I work with clients across all industries from the nonprofit sector to entertainment, health, and real estate. This means I get to write about a variety of subjects and it challenges me to write content that resonates with many different audiences. "

3. What is an awesome aspect of your job?

"I love learning about different industries and getting to know inspiring entrepreneurs who are passionate about their business. "

4. Where did you grow up and why did you choose Santa Cruz?

"I grew up in the foothills of California in a little town called Placerville. I came to Santa Cruz to attend UCSC and stayed for the awesome people, the beautiful natural environment, and the access to organic, local food and tasty craft beer. "

5. What is some advice you can give to other young professionals?

"Always be open to new opportunities, meeting new people, and connecting more deeply with your community. If you put yourself out there, things will eventually fall into place. "

6. What were your previous jobs leading up to the one you have now?

"Right out of college I worked as an optician at Plaza Lane Optometry and then as the Admissions Coordinator at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center. Although neither of these jobs relate directly to my work now as a copywriter, I gained new skills and life lessons from each of them and they helped me realize the type of career I wanted to pursue. "

7. What are some more fun activities you enjoy doing in Santa Cruz COUNTY?

"I've recently gotten into surfing which I feel is long overdue since I've lived here for 12 years. I also love hiking in the redwoods, catchings sunsets with my pup down at Seabright Beach, and nerding out on the burgeoning foodie scene here. I probably spend most of my money on really good food and beer. "

8. What are your favorite hang out places?

​"You can often find me chatting over a beer at Lupulo or climbing with friends at Pacific Edge."

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